Opeyemi Gbemiro

The Ekiti House of Assembly has called for a thorough investigation into the death of Oladimeji Aloba, a hip-hop musician popularly known as Mohbad.

The assembly made the call on Wednesday while deliberating on a motion by Mr Babatunde Oke, the lawmaker representing Ikere Constituency I.

Oke, who moved the motion under matter of urgent public importance, said it was important to unravel the circumstances behind Mohbad’s death.

”There is need for thorough investigation on this issue. We are hearing different stories, we need to know what happened,” he said.

Supporting the motion, Mr Babatunde Odowu, representing Ikere Constituency 2, described Mohbad’s death as not only untimely but a huge loss.

In his speech, the Speaker, Adeoye Aribasoye , said that the assembly was hugely pained by the death of the musician.

”The situation calls for sober reflection, the entertainer’s death is a big blow on us. We need to ensure that justice is done,” he said.

He prayed to God to grant the family and admirers of the late musician the fortitude to bear the loss.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng).

By Joshua Olomu

Nollywood actors participating at the maiden edition of Youth Educational Film Festival (YEFF) in Abuja on Monday trained young talents on how to use films to shun vices and promote nation’s building.

The film fiesta is organised by Abuja Film Village (AFV) in collaboration with the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and an NGO, “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative (IFON).

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that seasoned thespians held master class and shared experiences with participants drawn from both tertiary and secondary schools in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

Actors, who served as resource persons at the festival, included Charles Inojie, Segun Arinze, Victor Osuagwu, Charles Awurum, Chinedu Ikedieze, Dauda Kinsley and Ayo Emmamuel, among others.

Emeka Rollas, the National President, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), said that the essence of the festival was to provide a platform for youngsters to showcase their talents and foster creativity among them.

“We observed that since inception of Nollywood, there were no specialised films or programmes that promote nation’s building from school level in our country.

“Therefore, it becomes imperative to embark on this educational content and promote learning outside the traditional classroom settings and address important educational themes, social issues, vices and current events.

“The overall benefits of YEFF cannot be over emphasised as it encourages creativity, self-expression, promote education and learning.

According to Rollas, it also fosters cultural exchange and inspires future careers in the creative sector.

“ This is part of our projection for social impact movies to positively rebrand our dear country, inspire our people, promote unity and help change some skewed negative perception about our people and country.

“ We therefore call on all relevant government’s agencies, NGOs and international organisations to join hands with us to make this festival an annual event to encourage our children towards nation building,” he said.

Dr Francisca Ibezim, Managing Director, Abuja Film Village (AFV), said the festival was part of flagship events conceived by the management of the AFV to drive its films through education campaign.

She added that the festival was geared towards providing a platform for young filmmakers and passionate Nigerian youths to showcase their talents.

“I am delighted that this historic event is not only hosted in the city of Abuja but also organised in partnership with the Actors Guild of Nigeria and “I am the Future of Nigeria Youth Initiative”

“This maiden edition of YEFF is in line with the vision of the Abuja Film Village to help contribute to the socio-economic development of the city and boost tourism in the FCT..

In her remarks, Mrs Noni Okocha, Chief Executive Officer of IFON, described the festival as a springboard for government at all levels to achieve their educational objectives and improve literacy nationwide.

“Successes of our media literacy and film education campaigns in secondary and tertiary schools can help shape a national plan for film education that is strategic and cost-effective.

“Films in education is therefore one of the best mediums to create awareness to help educate the nation,” she said.

Some of the participants who spoke with NAN on the sidelines, said that the film education programme was commendable.

Miss Blossom Bernard said, “this is a huge opportunity for every aspiring actor and I am very happy that I attend it.

Also, Miss Esther Adamu, studying Theatre Arts at the Nasarawa State University, described the programme as an amazing opportunity to fulfil her dreams of becoming a movie star.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abdulwahab Deji

By Aderonke Ojediran

Kabaka and His Oriental International Brothers’ new album, “Abialam”,  has surged to the 50th position on  Apple Music Top 100 chart worldwide less than 24 hours after its release.

Amarachi Anyanwu, the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Derda Promotions, made this known in a statement on Saturday in Lagos.

“In a groundbreaking moment for African highlife music, after its release. this monumental achievement makes “Abialam” the first highlife music album from Africa to ever reach this global milestone.

“Abialam, which means “I have returned”, is an intricate tapestry of traditional rhythms and modern beats, capturing the essence of highlife music while resonating with a broad international audience.

“The album features six tracks that pay homage to the highlife genre’s rich history, while also incorporating contemporary elements that make it accessible and relevant to today’s music scene.

“We are beyond thrilled to see this level of engagement and support from our fans around the world,”Anyanwu said.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Godwin Opara, fondly called Kabaka, is a famous guitarist and the leader of the Oriental Brothers International Band.

The band has been  famous in Eastern Nigerian highlife scene for several years.

The 77-year-old singer, composer and instrumentalist noted that ‘Abialam’ aimed at restoring the highlife genre.

“It’s an honour to represent highlife music on a global stage and make history with this album,” he said.

Some of his major albums with the Oriental Brothers include ‘Uwa Atualamujo/ Ihe Chinyere,’ ‘Ihe Oma,’ ‘Isichim nyara gi,’ ‘Five Fingers,’ ‘Oriental Special,’ ‘Osa enwe akwu,’ ‘Onyeoma nmadu eji egbuya,’ ‘Anam ele chi,’ ‘Hallelujah,’ “Madu bu aja’ and ‘Abialam’.

Abialam” has not only topped charts but also garnered critical acclaim from music critics, who lauded the album’s rich instrumentation, lyrical depth, and innovative sound.

Fans can stream “Abialam” on Apple Music and all other major streaming platforms. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

By Taiye Olayemi
The management of late Nigerian rapper and songwriter, Ilerioluwa Aloba, popularly known as “Mohbad”, has vowed to continue the fight to retrieve the singer’s catalogue and unpaid royalties from his former record label, Martian Music.

The management stated this in a statement posted on Mohbad’s verified instagram account, @iammohbad, on Saturday.

The statement read, “Right now, we are focused on making sure the legacy of Mohbad lives on and he is remembered as he was in his final months; Free, strong and fighting for his future.

“Before his passing, Mohbad was in court to retrieve the majority of his songs and unpaid royalties which were wrongfully held by Marlian Music.

“We will continue the fight to retrieve his catalogue and unpaid royalties so that through these, those he left behind, especially his son, Liam Imole, will be provided for.

“We want #JusticeforMohbad, and we will appreciate all the support we can get in this fight to retrieve his catalogue from Marlian Music, as this is the justice that Mohbad was working towards.”

The management appreciated the outpouring of love from the general public following the passing of Mohbad.

Some fans also took to the comment section of the statement to pay their tributes to the late singer.

emini_kabex said, “Chai!!! Every single minute I just silently pray and wish in my heart MOH should just pop up on live video and say he is just pranking us…….”

Also, harteezofficial wrote, “JUSTICE FOR MOHBAD.”

ajimovoix_drums with the display of weeping emojis, said, “Keep resting champ, you fought so hard but God wants it another way round, I miss you Imole.”

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Mohbad left Marlian Music in 2022, citing unpaid royalties from 2019.

He died on Tuesday, Sept. 12 at the of age 27. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Queen Precious Okoye, the reigning Miss Africa, alongside the Okere of Saki, Khalid Olabisi, the Ado Oyedepo III, during the implementation of her pet project on Agro-industrialisation where she empowered more than 30 female farmers with 50kg bags of fertiliser.

By Ibukun Emiola

The reigning Miss Africa, Precious Okoye, has urged governments of African countries to increase the support given to female farmers because they contribute a lot to food production and preservation.

Okoye stated this in Saki, Oyo State during the implementation of her pet project on Agro-industrialisation where she empowered more than 30 female farmers with 50kg bags of fertiliser.

She said it was in recognition of the contribution of women to farming that her PET project seeks to encourage local female farmers to keep up with agriculture.

The beauty queen added that this was because they contribute immensely to the growth of the economy, by helping to produce and preserve food.

”I am pleading with the governments and private sector across Nigeria and Africa to support me in this project, as I am looking at carrying out this project in the six geo-political zones of Nigeria and further on in Africa.

”This is to help female farmers to be more productive, save their time and energy and also get the job done.

“These women are going through so much and usually farm with their bare hands and we can make their lives better and also create more job opportunities for them,” Okoye said.

She urged governments to support women farmers with fertilisers and farm implements which can make their lives easier.

“If I as an individual can do this, imagine what the government can do.

“It needs willingness on the part of the government to encourage local food production than importing from South Africa and Europe.

“With these local farmers we can help our GDP and boost the economy for sustainability.”

In his remarks at the occasion, the Okere of Saki, Khalid Olabisi, the Ado Oyedepo III, congratulated Okoye for emerging as Miss Africa.

“I think this is the first of its kind in Nigeria. I also want to commend her on her choice of pet project which is to assist female farmers.

“As we all know, Saki is known for farming by both the male and female, and this will boost the number of female that will go into farming if this kind of project is done yearly.

“We thank God for her life and her presence here will encourage other young girls to see her for the first time here, as Miss Africa, in their domain.

“It will inspire them and make them work hard and aspire to be one in the future,” Olabisi said.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Aderemilekun Ojo, commended Okoye, praying that God should bless her.

”We can do much with what was given to us, and we will surely utilise them,” she said.

The News Agency of Nigeria, (NAN) reports that Precious Okoye is a 27-year-old Botany graduate from the University of Lagos.(NAN)

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(Edited by Olawale Alabi)

Ace artistes Skipper and DJ Sean Mannie 

By Joshua Olomu

Sensational Nigerian singer Akinola Oladapo, popularly known as `Skipper’ and ace music curator, DJ Sean Mannie have released an electrifying hit single titled ‘Gawu’.

Mr Honour Aghedo, the Project Manager of ONErpm representing the Reals A&R Record Label, disclosed this in a statement in Abuja on Monday.

According to him, the new ‘collabo single’, produced by the highly acclaimed Spellz, is a blend of Afrobeat, R&B, Pop, and dancehall influences.

He added that the new song has the ingredients to become a chart-topper and a staple in playlists that are meant to ‘uplift spirits and ignite dance floors.’

“Hailing from Lagos, Nigeria, Skipper, also known as Akinola Oladapo, showcases his versatility by effortlessly blending Afrobeat, R&B, Pop, and dancehall influences.

“His velvety-smooth vocals intertwine with Spellz’s innovative production techniques, resulting in a sonic experience that exudes self-confidence, good vibes and an irresistible dance energy.

“Sean Mannie’s prowess as a DJ and music curator finds a complementary partner in Skipper’s multifaceted musical talents, showcasing a partnership that has the potential to resonate deeply with a diverse audience.

“The song extends an irresistible call to all, beckoning them to partake in the festivities, whether they find themselves on the dance floor or simply immersed in the euphoria of music.

“Central to the song’s charm is the seamless fusion of Skipper’s artistic prowess and Spellz’s production wizardry,” Aghedo said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab

By Joshua Olomu

Miss Omolara Omojola, the 2023 Queen of Peace Nigeria and nine other Queens of Peace on the platform of the Messengers of Peace Foundation on Friday unveiled pet projects aimed at promoting peaceful co-existence.

They said this at the Unveiling Ceremony of Pet Projects, organised by the Foundation in Abuja.

Omojola said the 10 Queens of Peace were ready to embark on the ‘Peace Campaign’ through their respective pet projects.

She explained that in line with the mandate of the Messengers of Peace Foundation, they were set to champion advocacy for peaceful co-existence among Nigerians.

“Today, we are here to unveil project of the 2023/2024 Queen of Peace Nigeria/International and other queens representing the six geo-political zones of the country.

“There is need for deep and vast sensitisation of our youths as leaders of tomorrow on peaceful co-existence and national unity which will foster economic growth and development.

“ In line with that vision, my project is tagged ‘Youth Sensitisation on Peaceful Co-existence and Quality Sustainability(YOSPEQS).”

According to her, this project aims to unite Nigerian youths without gender, tribal and religious discriminations which hinder youths from maximisiing their potentials.

“I beckon on government at all levels, corporate bodies and Nigerians of goodwill to support through funding the numerous projects being unveiled today which are centered on peaceful co-existence among Nigerians.”

Also, Miss Mary Ukor, Queen of Peace North-West, unveiled plans to provide skills acquisition programme for under-privileged youths in the region.

Miss Favour Chukwu, Queen of Peace South-East said she was set to campaign for access to primary healthcare by women and children in the region.

Others were Miss Regina Ochuole, Queen of Peace South-South, who launched campaign on conflict resolution.

Miss Ella Eze, Queen of Peace International said she was set to lead a campaign against women trafficking ,

Miss Hope, Face of Messengers of Peace Foundation unveiled a programme to empower internally Displaced Persons(IDPs).

Also, Miss Esther Asuquo, the reigning Queen of Peace Teen planed to get out of school indigent students back to school to complete their education through support from Nigerians.

Earlier in his address, the National President, Messengers of Peace, Dr Suleiman Adejoh said the unveiling of pet projects was a flagship initiative of the foundation through its core objectives were achieved.

He said that the queens were made to pass through mentoring on peace and how to promote peaceful coexistence within and beyond Nigeria.

“The main objective is to work for the promotion of peace across the country irrespective of tribe, gender and religion,”he said

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that Omojola had in August emerged the overall winner of the Queen of Peace Nigeria, while nine others were crowned Queens of Peace for North Central, North-West, North-East and that of the South-East respectively.

Others were crowned as Queen of Peace International, Face of Messengers of Peace Foundation and Queen of Peace Teen. (NAN)(nannews.ng)

Edited by Deji Abdulwahab